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OTTAWA — Double lung recipient Hélène Campbell is back in a Toronto hospital after experiencing shortness of breath.

Manon Campbell, Hélène's mother, announced the setback in a blog post Wednesday night.

"For reasons still to be determined, Hélène experienced shortness of breath with reduced oxygen saturation on Sunday. Most of the shortness of breath was felt when walking and some while at rest. So, as advised and taught before her discharge, she went to the emergency department," Manon wrote.

"She has been admitted since Sunday evening and is having various tests to help determine the reasons for her shortness of breath and to help the team decide on a course of treatment. The possibility of infection and rejection remain her major risks as is the case for all of transplant patients, especially at this stage of recovery."

But the 21-year-old remains in good spirits, Manon wrote.

"Transplant is not a cure, it is a treatment and like many treatments, there may be adjustments, side effects, complications, and lifestyle modifications as part of the picture for a transplant survivor.

"Once we understand this, it is a lot easier to accept the humps and bumps on the road," her mother wrote.

"While waiting for more tests and results, Hélène's attitude remains strong and positive. According to the team, Hélène's return to the apartment should be sooner rather than later."

Hélène received her new set of lungs on April 6 — Good Friday — after months of waiting for a suitable donor. She was diagnosed last fall with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable and degenerative lung disease. Her battle with the disease and her online campaign to encourage organ donation has attracted worldwide attention.

Sunday's setback followed an encouraging weekend that included a surprise birthday party in Toronto for her brother, David.

"Hélène surprised four Campbells arriving from Ottawa at our apartment door Friday night," Manon wrote. "For starters, they had no idea she was out of hospital. Secondly, she was holding a birthday cake with lit candles — for months she had been strictly avoiding flames because of her oxygen. Lastly, she could sing Happy Birthday to David. This was one of our weekend's highlights."

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